Collegiate Resources

Recovery Made for College Students

What is Collegiate Recovery?

Looking for recovery resources in your area? Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRP) provide support, community, and resources on campus. They support college students dealing with substance use recovery and mental health issues.

These programs link students to a helpful recovery community. They also offer access to vital resources.

How Do I Find College Resources?

  • Recovery programs differ by campus. So, check out various options if your college's services don't fit your needs. Check out nearby campuses or consider Recovery Community Centers for additional support.
  • We've shared collegiate recovery programs in Iowa. If your campus program isn't listed, please let us know!
  • For more on substance use in higher education, check out this page from Intelligent's Higher Education Team.
A group of six students in their graduation gowns throwing their caps up in the air in front of a university building.
A group of six students in their graduation gowns throwing their caps up in the air in front of a university building.

Does My College Have Recovery Resources?

Iowa State University has several resources available for students, including training programs, meetings, chat support, and more!

  • Substance Use Services - Access self-help, community outreach, prevention, peer support, and specialty services for Iowa State University students struggling with substance use.
  • Collegiate Recovery Community - Find a peer-support based, welcoming community with various resources on Iowa State's campus and online.
  • Student Wellness - Focus on a variety of kinds of wellness, including student support services, programs, trainings related to mental health, physical health, well-being, and more.

 

The University of Iowa offers a supportive collegiate recovery community with meetings, workshops, and events for students in or seeking recovery.

  • Collegiate Recovery Program - A campus-wide program supported by multiple student organizations, offering peer support, resources, and sober activities to help students thrive in recovery.
  • Success, Not Excess - A group focused on helping students make changes to their substance use in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.
  • Recovery Collaborative - A network of campus partners working together to build a recovery-ready campus through programming, education, and outreach.

 

Drake University provides support for students in or seeking recovery through weekly meetings, counseling, and wellness programs.

  • Bulldog Recovery - Drake’s collegiate recovery program offering peer support, weekly meetings, and individual counseling for students navigating recovery.
  • Support Resources - Includes support spaces, monthly pet therapy sessions, and recovery-focused resources to help students manage their well-being.

 

University of Northern Iowa's Wellness Center includes Wellness Coaching options, which span the eight dimensions of wellness, safe sex practices, drug addiction, and alcohol addiction.

  • Wellness Coaching - A confidential service available to all UNI students that explores personal character strength and strategic wellness goals.
  • Facts on Tap - A program designed to make students feel more confident about their decisions regarding alcohol use. Provides accurate information to encourage safe alcohol consumption.
  • One-on-One Support - UNI uses BASICS, a harm-reduction-focused program that helps college students make healthier choices regarding drugs and alcohol. This program is available to all students.

How Do I Start A Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP)?

Man sits with a silver laptop on his lap and smiles at the screen.
Man sits with a silver laptop on his lap and smiles at the screen.

Looking for recovery resources in your area? Check out the Building You Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP).

Every Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP) is unique, but remember: you're not alone. CRPs exist nationwide, each providing steps to help build your own recovery community.

First Steps to Start Your CRP:

  • Engage with campus early to establish your presence. Consider tabling, campaigns, or social media.
  • Boost student interests by designing projects and activities that match what students need.
  • Set up a special area for your CRP. This will help build connections, lessen feelings of isolation, and offer resources. This space can also host study groups, advocacy, and more.

Learn More

Visit the Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE) for a guide to kickstart your recovery program in college. They offer a 13-page resource with help from the Independence Blue Cross Foundation. Click here to learn more.